We live in interesting times much in fulfillment of the great Chinese adage!. Interesting because of the elastic capacity of political spin doctors to connect totally unrelated political dots to fit into predetermined mindsets. 

Barely three years ago, the usually combustible atmosphere in Benue State was  inflamed by contrived controversies over the siting of a Federal Polytechnic in Wannune, in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State. 

According to trending narratives then , the Polytechnic was originally sited in Adikpo in Kwande Local Government Area in the Zone A axis of the State. 

The Adikpo school was birthed by Senator Barnabas Gemade who was representing the zone at that time.

According to the purveyors of the story , the polytechnic has been moved to Wannune in Zone B due to the machinations of Senator Gabriel Suswam the immediate past Senator representing Benue North East in the National Assembly and the secretary to the government of the Federation, Senator George Akume who had worked independently to vanquish the achievements of Senator Gemade by erasing one of his star accomplishments as Senator. 

Now that the governor of BenueState, Hyacinth Alia, has revealed those behind the  relocation of the polytechnic from Kwande to Tarka Local Government would the kwande people apologise to sen. Suswam for falsely accusing him over what he knew nothing about? 

The governor confirmed that the removal of the Federal Polytechnic Adikpo to Wannune in Tarkaa, was done by some powerful Abuja politicians who did it in collaboration with officials of the Federal ministry of education then.

If you recall, some sponsored pens took turns to write press articles in national dailies,  and social media platforms and cluster WhatsApp groups accusing the former governor and Senator of not protecting their interest, over something that decided by members of then Buhari Federal cabinet.

Unfortunately, no matter how much Senator Suswam, tried to explain, the people of kwande refused to listen to reason, their elites whom we thought would do diligent investigations and explain things to their people back home were in the forefront the attacks on Suswam.

But thankfully, Governor Alia has cleared the air on the true state of things and we thank him immensely for it, and we hope that next time before you accuse public officials on any matter, you will do your research properly or we will continue to throw  away and losing good representation, both at home and at the National level.

The storyline then was that Suswam, wanted the state owned College of Education in Katsina Ala to be taken over by the Federal Government while Akume will rather have a polytechnic sited in his ancestral village of Wannune. 

The rumour  mills then had no doubt been fed by conspiracy theories laden with negative political innuendo, portraying Senator Gabriel Torwua Suswam, of  engaging in a selfish game of musical chairs but, the truth behind the relocation of the polytechnic has been unravel by the governor himself. 

Very few people then  had taken a step backwards to undertake a dispassionate assessment of the state  of things. Most people seem consumed by the sentiments of the discussion rather than the facts. 

As of three years ago,  logic on its head to insinuate that Senator Gabriel Suswam, being a seasoned political player will endorse the “ relocation “ of an institution from a highly populated part of his senatorial district to a place outside of it when he was on the ballot for the 2023 presidential poll was idiotic. That will amount to political suicide. 

Secondly, while it is true that the senate in 2017 approved a Bill by Senator Gemade to site a Polytechnic in Adikpo, the same bill was never concurred to in the House of Representatives , neither was it gazetted by the President  but,now the issue is in the public domain. 

In any case, Senator Suswam has never had a hand in the Adikpo project because he wasn’t in the senate when the bill was presented with the confirmation of the governor today, while addressing the good people of kwande/ Ushongo on a thank you visit in Adikpo. 

As a matter of fact, he was in DSS detention when that bill was passed!. To therefore impute that he is part of a design to rob his zone of such a project is mischievous and uncharitable . 

As a proud member of the Tiv community, it is incumbent on him to celebrate such a great feat as bringing a federal institution to any part of Tivland giving the consequential chain of development it will bring to the  area. 

It was strange to observe that the zeal for political victories whether real or pyrrhic outweigh concrete issues of development in Benue state. Rather than pull resources together to celebrate rare privileges such as this, some actors will rather expand the fault lines in the state and paint others black in order for them to take center stage.  This is politics of self abnegation, a case of cutting your nose to spite your face. 

By Sulaiman Abdul

Before Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai became governor, Kaduna State enjoyed a sense of peace and unity among its various communities. The people had learned to live together, respecting each other’s rights and boundaries.
Kaduna State has a long history of peaceful coexistence among its various communities, from the highlands of Makarfi to the plains of Kagoro. The farmers and herdsmen lived side by side, sharing the land and its treasures. While disputes over land have occurred in the past, the communities have managed to live together and prosper, showcasing their ability to accommodate differences and maintain harmony.
However, during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor, the state faced increased conflicts and tensions among different groups. During Elrufa’s tenure, longstanding misunderstandings that were ordinarily resolved at the community level were manipulated and escalated into violent conflicts fueled by tribal and religious jealousies. These conflicts have resulted in heavy loss of lives and valuable resources, creating a climate of fear and unrest in the state.
One of the main issues that has been exacerbated under Elrufai’s leadership is the age-old clash between herdsmen and farmers. This conflict, which has been a recurring problem for centuries, has escalated into deadly confrontations resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property.
The current state of killings and unrest in the region cannot be viewed as isolated incidents, but rather as part of a larger agenda of misgovernance that has divided communities along ethnic and religious lines. Elrufai’s administration has exploited internal weaknesses and cleavages in society, perpetuating a cycle of violence and discord.
El-Rufai’s eight-year tenure was marked by division, weakness, and confusion within the state. His policies exploited ethnic and religious differences, leading to a grand misgovernance that fueled the current spate of killings and unrest. It is clear that Kaduna State needs a more inclusive and proactive approach to address the challenges it faces and restore the peace and unity that once defined the state.
Allegations of human rights abuses, unguarded public utterances, and a flood of petitions have characterized the political career of Nasir El-Rufai, particularly during his eight-year tenure as the governor of Kaduna State. These issues have raised significant concerns both within Nigeria and internationally, highlighting the controversial nature of his leadership style and decision-making.
One of the key issues surrounding El-Rufai’s tenure is the broad and specific allegations of human rights abuses. Perhaps the most prominent case is the killing of over 300 followers of the Shiite leader, Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, in Zaria, Kaduna State, in 2015. Instead of holding the military accountable for the massacre, the El-Rufai-led government chose to prosecute El-Zakzaky and his wife, leading to a lengthy and controversial legal process that ultimately ended in dismissal by the Kaduna State High Court in July 2021. This case has brought El-Rufai under intense scrutiny from both domestic and international human rights bodies, with investigations ongoing at the International Criminal Court and the United Nations.
Furthermore, El-Rufai’s tenure was marked by arbitrary arrests of political enemies, seizure of properties, and wanton demolition of perceived opponents’ properties. Reports of extrajudicial killings and the use of force and intimidation to suppress protests have further tarnished his human rights record. Some court cases against him have alleged embezzlement of public funds and abuse of trust, involving cronies, allies, and family members for corrupt purposes during his time as head of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and governor of Kaduna State.
In addition to human rights abuses, El-Rufai’s unguarded public utterances have also generated controversy and backlash. He has made divisive statements that inflamed mistrust among citizens, particularly between Muslims and Christians in Kaduna State. His comment about Muslims ruling Kaduna for a long period while doing justice to Christians was widely criticized for its potential to stoke religious and ethnic tensions, leading to bloody clashes. The derogatory remarks he made towards political adversaries and respected groups like the Northern Elders Forum have further solidified his reputation for making inflammatory comments.
Moreover, a flood of petitions and legal challenges have followed El-Rufai throughout his political career. His nomination as a ministerial candidate attracted widespread rejections and petitions, leading to protests during the screening exercise at the National Assembly. Several pending cases in Nigerian and international courts, including the ECOWAS and the ICC, highlight the extent of the legal challenges facing El-Rufai. Allegations of genocide, crimes against humanity, and corruption have been leveled against him, reflecting the depths of public distrust and dissatisfaction with his leadership.
The tenure of Governor Elrufai in Kaduna State will be remembered as a dark period in the history of the state. The administration, characterized by a lack of transparency, accountability, and empathy, left a trail of suffering and despair in its wake. As Elrufai’s eight-year reign came to an end, the people of Kaduna State were left grappling with the harsh realities of hunger, inflation, job losses, and a deteriorating healthcare system.
The 2023 elections marked a turning point for the state, as voters overwhelmingly chose a new vision for the future. Senator Uba Sani emerged as the people’s choice to lead Kaduna State out of its current predicament and towards a brighter tomorrow. The jubilations that followed the election were not just about a change in leadership, but about the hope and possibility of a better future for all residents of the state.
Governor Uba Sani faces a daunting task ahead, as he must navigate the challenges left behind by his predecessor and chart a new course for the state. It is imperative that he surround himself with a team of competent and compassionate individuals who share his vision for a prosperous and united Kaduna State. The mention of leaders like Honorable Sani Mohammed Shaaban, with his impeccable credentials and commitment to the welfare of the people, highlights the importance of selecting the right individuals to support the governor in his quest for positive change.
Shaaban is a passionate believer in the organic links between generations, particularly when it comes to mentorship in northern Nigeria. At a very young age, he had the privilege of being exposed to political masters such as Ibrahim Tahir, Umaru Dikko, Joseph Tarka, and Aminu Kano. These individuals are living history and embodiments of all the exemplary qualities that young Northerners should strive to achieve.
Mentorship is a crucial aspect of personal and professional growth, and Shaaban understands the importance of learning from those who have come before him. The political masters he was fortunate enough to be mentored by not only imparted knowledge and wisdom but also instilled in him a sense of responsibility and dedication to serving his community and country.
Ibrahim Tahir, Umaru Dikko, Joseph Tarka, and Aminu Kano are all respected figures in northern Nigeria, known for their leadership, integrity, and commitment to social change. Shaaban sees them as role models and strives to follow in their footsteps by upholding the values they stood for.
In a society where traditional values and customs play a significant role, mentorship from esteemed individuals like Ibrahim Tahir, Umaru Dikko, Joseph Tarka, and Aminu Kano is invaluable. These mentors not only provide guidance and support but also serve as a living example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to serving others.
Shaaban’s belief in the organic links between generations is a testament to the power of mentorship and the importance of learning from those who have come before us. Thanks to the guidance and guardianship he received from northern political masters, Shaaban is well-equipped to carry on their legacy and make a positive impact in his community and beyond.
Umaru Dikko, known for his iron will and determination, inspired many with his unwavering commitment to his principles. Shaaban has been Dikko’s close tutelage since his school days in the United Kingdom and shares this steadfastness and commitment to his goals, demonstrating a resilience that mirrors that of Dikko.
Dr. Ibrahim Tahir, with his political sagacity, paved the way for future leaders like Shaaban whom he guided and mentored rigorously in the days of the second republic National Party of Nigeria (NPN). His intellect and foresight in navigating the complexities of Nigerian politics set a standard for Shaaban. As such, Shaaban exemplifies a similar level of acumen and strategic thinking in his own political endeavors.
Aminu Kano, a political maverick dedicated to social justice, has influenced Shaaban in his quest for a fair and equitable society. Shaaban’s dedication to the people and his passion for uplifting the marginalized echo the ideals that Kano championed during his lifetime.
Tarka, renowned for his courage and boldness, serves as a role model for Shaaban with whom he served as the national youth leader of the NPN. Shaaban’s fearless approach to tackling tough issues reflects the same courage that Tarka exhibited during his political career.
Shehu Shagari’s impetus and vision for a prosperous Nigeria continue to inspire leaders like Shaaban. Shaaban shares Shagari’s commitment to national unity and economic development, striving to build a better future for all Nigerians.
It is difficult in this age and time for any political in Kaduna State to compare with Shaaban who carries the legacy of these esteemed leaders with grace and determination.
His leadership, sacrifice, and dedication to the common people make him an invaluable asset to any government seeking to improve the lives of its citizens and to the North generally. In a diverse state like Kaduna, leaders like Shaaban who have enjoyed such rare opportunity for training by masters of the northern power play are crucial in bridging divides and fostering unity among all communities.
Shaaban’s inspiring presence and untiring efforts to serve the interests of the people of Kaduna State should be appreciated by all. Governor Uba Sani must heed the calls of the people for competent and compassionate individuals like Shaaban to support him in his mission to transform Kaduna State.
With leaders like Sani Shaaban by his side, Governor Uba Sani can guide the state towards prosperity and unity. The people of Kaduna deserve a government that works for their benefit and well-being, and with Shaaban’s leadership, a brighter tomorrow is possible for all residents of the state. It is time for a new era of governance that prioritizes the well-being and prosperity of all.

Abdul writes from Kaduna (0806 549 3479)

By Tanimu Abdullahi

In what is seen by observers as a desperate attempt to dim and shoot down the bright and ever-rising political star of Distinguished Senator Aishatu Dahiru Binani, and to clear the coast of what he sees as the biggest obstacle to his ambition to be the Executive Governor of Adamawa State come 2027, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in what is clearly a misuse of office and insider privilege, is planning to send the statutory institutional attack dogs of EFCC and ICPC after Binani and her husband, Dr. Ahmed Moddibo.Reliable information filtering in from Abuja has it that Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who is the National Security Adviser, NSA, to the President, has directed the Minister of Education, Professor Mamman Tahir, who worked for Labour Party (LP) at the 2023 Presidential election and worked for People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at the 2023 Adamawa Governorship election, a longstanding associate of the NSA and who got the ministership by the graces of the NSA, to probe the tenure of Dr. Ahmed Modibbo as the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, (2007-2012) and thereafter lodge an official complaint before the EFCC and the ICPC, who will then use the complaint to go after Dr. Ahmed Modibbo.The Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, was established in 2004, and Dr. Modibbo served as its Executive Secretary in 2007 – 2012. His tenure ended 11 clear years ago and there have been three (3) other Executive Secretaries after him, namely Professor Charles Onocha, who served as the Acting Executive Secretary from 2012 to 2013, and Alhaji Dikko Sulaiman, who served as the Executive Secretary from 2013 to 2016, and the incumbent, Dr. Hamid Bobboi, who came to office in 2016.

The question we are asking is: why the selective probe? Why leave out the tenures before and the tenures after that of Dr. Ahmed Modibbo and probe only his tenure? The answer is that probity and accountability are not what this probe is intended to secure, but an arbitrary misuse of office by a high level insider to drag down someone he sees as his political albatross so as to achieve personal political ends. The aim is to bring trumped-up charges against Dr. Ahmed Modibbo, rope his wife, Senator Aishatu Dahiru Binani into it, and hopefully kill her political future by the resultant criminal case. It is a desperate and ignoble witch-hunt, an attempt to give a dog a bad name so as to hang it.This is not surprising to discerning observers of political events in Adamawa State. Since the APC governorship primaries were concluded and Senator Aishatu Binani, against the much tauted and vaunted candidature of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, easily won the ticket of the party, all hell broke loose. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and his powerful associates, swearing that Senator Aishatu Binani will never become governor of Adamawa State, went after her with all the firepower in their arsenal. When they couldn’t use the courts to stop her, they resorted to all kinds of backhanded and underhanded tricks, including a well-oiled media smear campaign and high-wired subterranean anti-party activities that almost destroyed their own party, just to halt the march of the woman of the people. From the results of the 2023 Governorship Elections, which actually indicated a victory for Senator Binani, their efforts did not work. So, using their strong connections, they stole the elections and gave it to a usurper. She turned to the Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal to recapture her mandate; they overshot themselves by concocting a judgment that has jurists and intellectuals wondering what stretch of imagination was used to pull that obviously twisted judicial abracadabra.

Now that Senator Binani has beaten them in so many negative attempts of destroying her political fortunes including the very fallacies of the concocted results announced by INEC after the gubernatorial elections – a situation that has gotten all the anti-Binani forces scampering for whatever cover they can find to save their croaked political necks – as a last-ditch effort, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu now came up with this probe to gain some respectability for what is clearly a vendetta crusade by a man who has always resorted to using the powers that be for personal political gains, instead of building his political profile by working for the people, against a woman who is truly a champion of the people, owing to her stellar career of selfless service to the people, who is only seeking political power to serve the people of Adamawa State.

As with all the previous ignoble attempts to stop the inevitable march of Senator Aishatu Dahiru Binani to Dougerei House, this one also shall also fail, Insha Allah. We shall come out of this, stronger and better.

Tanimu Abdullahi, is a public affairs analyst, writes from Agwan Rimi in Kaduna.